According to the U.S.

Department of Education, operations management is a field of business involved

with managing and directing the physical and technical functions of a business or organization. Skills and
tools related specifically to development, manufacturing and production are considered operations
management. Both tactical and operational forms of operations management tools can be applied to
small business management, and these skills can help owners or managers enhance their companies.

Project Management

In large factories or manufacturing companies, project managers spend considerable amounts of time
planning each aspect of a product line. From acquisition of supplies and scheduling employees to
shipment costs and tariff fees, every detail of what is required to get a product manufactured and into
the hands of a consumer is considered. Project management tools and methods can be used in small
businesses, too. To effectively create a budget or devise a strategic plan, every detail about your
business, including marketing, overhead costs, salaries and supply fees should be accounted for. From
start to finish, go through everything needed to complete a project and create a timeline for it. Use a
spreadsheet to track the details and logistics to perform long-term scheduling and planning.

Quality Control and Inspection

Quality control is an essential part of any manufacturing process. You should conduct an assessment of
measurable outcomes quarterly (if not more often) to see whether your business is on track to meet
goals. Additionally, assessment of the levels of tasks performed or products created should be a regular
part of each project as it is completed. Feel free to criticize the outcomes, if necessary, and establish
better or more realistic expectations. Additionally, conduct regular surveys to determine whether
customer-service goals are being met.

Equipment Maintenance Policies

Equipment maintenance is important for any business. The heating and air conditioning units are a
considerable expense, and they should be maintained and checked regularly. Any vehicles your
company uses should have the oil changed and tires rotated according to the manufacturer's
recommendations. Additionally, any other necessary maintenance should be performed to keep them in
good operating condition. Computers and other hardware (like printers, copiers and scanners) used in
your business should be kept in good running order. Virus protection, regular cleaning and proper care
should be utilized to keep them performing well. Maintenance calendars can be created to track all
related tasks.

Product Scheduling

Manufacturers complete product schedules that help to get them from product development to the
point of sales to consumers. Product schedules can be used in any small business and adapted to fit your
needs. Use scheduling to plan long-range projects or overall goals throughout the year. Set deadlines for
stages of projects and require accurate progress reports so everyone involved is updated.